A prototype of the 2016 BMW X1 has been spied carrying slightly less camouflage while testing.

A prototype of the 2016 BMW X1 has been spied carrying slightly less camouflage while testing.

This is our best look so far at the second generation X1 as this time we catch a glimpse of the headlight and taillight design while underneath the swirly camouflage is an evolutionary design with a prominent front grille, sloping roofline, plastic cladding, roof-mounted spoiler and dual exhaust tips. The crossover seems to be a tad shorter than the current model but this won't have a negative impact on the cabin space as switching to a transverse engine layout is going to enable a roomier interior.

Perhaps the biggest change is the adoption of the UKL1 platform sourced from the 2-Series Active Tourer which means the all-new BMW X1 will be offered as standard with a front-wheel drive system but for more money clients will still be able to get an optional xDrive all-wheel drive system. There are also some sources indicating BMW is planning a longer wheelbase model for a possible seven-seat variant.

There's nothing to report in terms of engines as these will be taken from the aforementioned 2-Series AT. A recent rumor stated the X1 will remain BMW's entry-level crossover model until 2019 when the Bavarians will allegedly introduce a 1-Series Sport Cross which will be smaller and cheaper.

Until then, expect the new BMW X1 to come out in the middle of next year so it should go on sale in the third quarter of 2015.